<p>The Prescribing and Medicines Management Group is an online forum that caters for pharmacists wishing to discuss and review any non-confidential topics related to pharmacists prescribing, the utilisation of medicines, and all associated concerns. If you have any questions relating to this topic or would like to discuss a topic or concern then this is the forum. </p>

<p>The aim and objective of this group is to offer pharmacists who work within, or have an interest in this aspect of pharmacy a medium through which they can communicate and share ideas with one another, membership is open to all. </p>

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Has anyone got a policy or view on the place for family members administering medication to patients in a care home? What are the patient's rights in this respect? And where does the home stand on it in relation to accountability?

We are currently drawing up some SOPs for a care home which clarify when transcribing is appropriate. But in the context of the patient having been assessed as suitable for self administration, what happens when the patient's relative claims to be medicating that patient at home, and is willing to continue administering medicines in the care home, until the necessary authorisation to transcribe has arrived? If this is permissible, should it be part of 'self administration' policy, or a separate one?

Lots of questions there, but I hope it may stimulate someone to reply? I seem to recall that patients do have the right to buy or take other medication than that prescribed whilst they are in a care home, but wondered if anyone could clarify that?